Multi-mode wirelessly rechargeable battery system

ABSTRACT

A device including a processor configured to identify a power transferring unit, to determine a range configuration relative to the power transferring unit, and to determine a power status of the device is provided. The device includes a first antenna configured to receive an oscillating power signal from the power transferring device at a first selected frequency based on the range configuration relative to the power transferring device, and on the power status of the device. The device includes a rectifier circuit configured to convert the oscillating power signal from the first antenna at the first selected frequency into a direct-current signal to charge an energy storage medium. The rectifier circuit is configured to provide the direct-current signal to an appliance coupled with the device. A method for using the above device and a non-transitory, computer-readable medium including instructions to use the above device are also provided.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/409,802, entitled “INTELLIGENT MULTI-MODEWIRELESS POWER SYSTEM,” to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/409,806, entitled “MULTI-MODE ENERGY RECEIVER SYSTEM,” and to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/409,811, entitled “MULTI-MODEWIRELESSLY RECHARGEABLE BATTERY SYSTEM,” all to David F. Meng andWilliam B. Wright, and filed on Oct. 18, 2016, the contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates to receiving wireless power in electricor electronic devices and more particularly to improving the wirelessreception of power to devices for charging and/or sustaining power tothose device loads.

Description of the Related Art

Common electric or electronic devices consume significant levels ofelectric power with use and a considerable amount of usage occurs whileaway from main alternate current (AC) power sources traditionally usedto supply power to such devices. Due to battery storage limitations, theneed for frequent recharging exists in order to sustain deviceoperation. Furthermore, the prevalence of portable electronic devicesand devices operating in areas where immediate physical connection witha traditional power source is unavailable, has resulted in increasedcomplexity for management and maintenance of connected electrical poweradapters and traditional power sources dependent on power conductingcables.

Current solutions to this problem are based on a singular type ofwireless power transfer typically involving restrictions on use anddistance that result in either higher power at short distances or lowerpower at greater distances.

SUMMARY

In certain embodiments, a device is provided that includes a processorconfigured to identify a power transferring unit, to determine a rangeconfiguration relative to the power transferring unit, and to determinea power status of the device. The device further includes a firstantenna configured to receive an oscillating power signal from the powertransferring device at a first selected frequency based on the rangeconfiguration relative to the power transferring device, and on thepower status of the device. The device also includes a rectifier circuitconfigured to convert the oscillating power signal from the firstantenna at the first selected frequency into a direct-current signal tocharge an energy storage medium, wherein the rectifier circuit isfurther configured to provide the direct-current signal to an appliancecoupled with the device.

In certain embodiments, a method is provided that includes identifying,by a rechargeable battery, a power transferring unit in a proximity ofthe rechargeable battery and determining a range configuration betweenthe power transferring unit and the rechargeable battery. The methodincludes determining a power status of the rechargeable battery, andselecting a first antenna in the power receiving unit based on the rangeconfiguration between the power transferring unit and the rechargeablebattery, and on the power status of the rechargeable battery. The methodalso includes receiving, with the first antenna, an oscillating powersignal from the power transferring unit at a selected frequency,converting the oscillating power signal from the power transferring unitat the selected frequency into a direct-current signal, and providingthe direct-current signal to a mobile device coupled with therechargeable battery.

In certain embodiments, a non-transitory, computer-readable medium isprovided that stores instructions which, when executed by a processor ina mobile computing device, cause the mobile computing device to performa method including receiving, from a rechargeable battery in the mobilecomputing device, an identification of a power transferring unit, arange configuration between the mobile computing device and the powertransferring unit, and a power status of the rechargeable battery. Thenon-transitory, computer-readable medium also stores instructions forproviding, in a display for a user of the mobile computing device, thepower status of the rechargeable battery, requesting, from the user, anauthorization to recharge the rechargeable battery with the powertransferring unit, and for providing to the rechargeable battery aselected mode of power transfer from the power transferring unit basedon the range configuration between the mobile computing device and thepower transferring unit, and the power status of the rechargeablebattery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a system for providingintelligent wireless power to a device load, including a power transferunit (PTU) and a power receiving unit (PRU), according to someembodiments.

FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of a PRU, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a PRU, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 3A-B illustrate rectifier circuits used in RF to DC currentconversion in a PRU, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 4A-C illustrate rectified waveforms as provided by a rectifiercircuit in a PRU, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 5A-C illustrate rectified waveforms as provided by a rectifiercircuit in a PRU, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 6A-B illustrate block diagrams of a RF to a DC conversion circuit,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a multi-mode wirelessly rechargeable battery in astandard AA form factor, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates multi-mode wirelessly rechargeable batteries inmultiple load devices, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a mobile device casing having slots and relatedfeatures that may interfere with a power transfer process to arechargeable battery, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating steps in a method for managing, froma power receiving unit, a power transfer from a PTU, according to someembodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In autonomous, mobile electronic appliances, power management is anissue that has direct impact in the performance and market advantage forthe device. Thus, in many applications it is desirable to have extramobility and autonomy for users as provided by embodiments disclosedherein. For example, in the area of medical devices such as implantedpacemakers and the like, having autonomy from battery recharge isdesired as much as technologically feasible. Indeed, battery replacementin such configurations may involve complicated medical, or even surgicalprocedures. To the extent that these procedures can be avoided, or mademore infrequent, embodiments as disclosed herein provide an extendedpower lifetime of the battery of such devices. The present disclosureprovides embodiments of intelligent systems that provide a multi-modewireless power delivery solution without the limitations of conventionalsystems.

In the field of automotive applications, some embodiments as disclosedherein provide a central power receiving unit that may be installed orcoupled with a mobile device (e.g., cell phones, laptops, notepads, andthe like) for charging within the enclosure of a car. Accordingly, inembodiments as disclosed herein a driver can focus on the road ratherthan in looking for a plug to connect a power cord for a device, therebyenhancing road safety.

In one aspect, the present disclosure includes a system and method ofreceiving wireless power intelligently in a device. Accordingly,embodiments consistent with the present disclosure receive a directedpower signal wirelessly from a power transferring unit (PTU) in a powerreceiving unit (PRU) in a first mode of operation (e.g., when the PRU isin the proximity of a far field range of the PTU). In other aspects,embodiments as disclosed herein include receiving a field (e.g., aresonant magnetic field) wirelessly and inductively coupling the fieldin the PRU at a resonant frequency of a receiver circuit in a secondmode of operation (e.g., when the PRU is in the proximity of a nearfield range of the PTU). Accordingly, in embodiments consistent with thepresent disclosure, a power transfer from the PTU to the PRU is managedselectively and efficiently. Embodiments as disclosed herein receivepower as desired in the first mode of operation, the second mode ofoperation, or a combination of both modes simultaneously. Furthermore,embodiments as disclosed herein take into consideration a powerrequirement of the PRU, and its range relative to the PTU. In someembodiments, multiple PRU's may receive power from a single PTU, whereinthe PRUs are sorted according to a prioritization based on the powerrequirements and range of each PRU relative to the PTU.

In one embodiment, the PRU includes a far field receiver configured towirelessly receive the directed power signal transmitted from the farfield transmitter. The PRU may also include a capture resonatorconfigured to inductively capture resonant magnetic power in the nearfield generated by the source resonator.

The frequency range of the power received in embodiments consistent withthe present disclosure may include, without limitation, aradio-frequency (RF), a low-frequency (LF) inductive magnetic, ahigh-frequency (HF) resonant magnetic field, or any combination of theabove. For example, frequency of any power received may be, but is notlimited to, any frequency between about 80 kHz to about 300 kHz (e.g.,110 kHz, 232 kHz, 250 kHz, 278 kHz, 915 MHz, 6.78 MHz, 13.56 MHz, 2.4GHz or 5.8 GHz).

Some embodiments include a method of managing multimode receipt ofwireless power. The method includes optimizing the wireless transfer ofpower from the PTU in at least the first mode of operation, the secondmode of operation, or the two modes of operation simultaneously. Themethod includes capturing and receiving the optimized power transferredwirelessly over varying distances by one or more power receiving units(PRU's). Some embodiments include a micro-controller circuit (MCC)configured to dynamically update a status of a range configurationbetween the PRU and the PTU to maximize the amount of power transferredbetween the devices in a dual mode, when available. Furthermore, someembodiments include a power harvesting configuration that exploits thelarge amount of unused digital data propagating at RF frequencieswirelessly to convert the digital signals into power transferred to thePRU. In such configuration, the MCC includes the reception andavailability of the digital signals for harvesting. Moreover, in someembodiments the MCC is further configured to prioritize the desire forpower for one or more PRU's in close proximity of the PTU. Thus, theload on the PTU is optimized for the needs of the one or multiple PRU'sbenefiting from the power transfer.

The present disclosure addresses the shortcomings of existingsingle-mode wireless power receiving systems such as low power transferfrom a far field source or the limited spatial freedom of near fieldpower transfer inherent to these technologies. At the same time,embodiments consistent with the present disclosure obviate a need fortraditional wired or cabled power delivery methods. Advantages of thepresent disclosure include increased efficiency, added redundancy forapplications where critical loss of available power could be detrimentalto the user and optional spatial versatility when lower power transferrates are acceptable while providing power to or charging an electric orelectronic device.

FIG. 1A illustrates a system 10 for receiving intelligent wireless powerin a device in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.System 10 includes PTU 12 and PRU 14. PTU 12 is configured to transmit adirected power signal 16 wirelessly in a first mode of operation to PRU14. In some embodiments, PTU 12 is further configured to generate aninductively coupled power signal (e.g., a resonant magnetic field) 18wirelessly in a second mode of operation. PRU 14 is configured toreceive the directed power signal 16 from PTU 12 when PRU 14 is in thefar field range of PTU 12. Further, PRU 14 is also configured to receivea resonant magnetic field in the second mode when PRU 14 is in theproximity of a near field range of PTU 12.

In some embodiments, PRU 14 includes a micro-computer circuit (MCC) 36,which is a processor configured to identify PTU 12, to determine a rangeconfiguration between PRU 14 and PTU 12, and to determine a power statusof PRU 14.

PRU 14 may also include a first antenna 46, and a second antenna 56.Antennas 46 and 56 may be configured to receive oscillating powersignals (e.g., directed propagating power signal 16 and inductivelycoupled power signal 18) from PTU 12. Each of directed propagating powersignal 18 and inductively coupled power signal 16 may oscillate at aselected frequency. For example, in some embodiments directedpropagating power signal 18 is a RF signal at about 915 MHz, andinductively coupled power signal 16 is a RF magnetic field oscillatingat 6.7 MHz, or at any frequency in a range between about 80 kHz to 300kHz. The frequency of oscillation of signals 18 and 16 may be indicativeof the range configuration of PRU 14 relative to PTU 12. For example, ina far field range configuration a directed propagating RF signaloscillating at approximately 915 MHz (signal 16) may be desirable. And ain a near field range configuration an inductively coupled power signaloscillating at approximately 6.7 MHz or even lower (e.g., 80-300 kHz)may be desirable. In some embodiments, the choice between receivingpower from directed propagating RF signal 16, from inductively coupledpower signal 18, or from any combination of both, is selected by MCC 36based on a power status of PRU 14. For example, when PRU 14 issubstantially depleted of power, it may be desirable to recharge usingboth signals 16 and 18, from PTU 12, simultaneously (as long as therange configuration between PTU 12 and PRU 14 is within the near field).In some embodiments, PRU 14 also includes a first and a second rectifiercircuits 40 a and 40 b, configured to convert the oscillating powersignal (e.g., inductively coupled power signal 18 and directed powersignal 16, respectively) from antennas 46 and 56 at the selectedfrequency, into a direct-current signal to charge a device load 60.

PRU 14 includes a far field receiver 26 configured to wirelessly receivethe directed power signal 16 transmitted from PTU 12 when PRU 14 iswithin a far field range of PTU 12. PRU 14 also includes a captureresonator 28 configured to capture resonant magnetic field (e.g.,including inductively coupled power signal 18) generated by PTU 12 whenPRU 14 is within a near field range of PTU 12.

In one embodiment, PRU 14 includes an MCC 36 configured to intelligentlymanage the power transfer in the near field mode, the far field mode, orboth modes, as desired. A communications circuit 38 is configured tocommunicate information between PTU 12 and PRU 14. A rectifier circuit40 a is configured to convert power from a capture resonator 28 andprovide the power to a device load 60. Likewise, a rectifier circuit 40b is configured to convert power from a far field receiver 26 andprovide the converted power to device load 60. Rectifier circuits 40 aand 40 b will be collectively referred to, hereinafter, as rectifiercircuits 40.

In some embodiments, rectifier circuits 40 include an amplifier circuitto amplify the oscillating power signal from antennas 46 and 56, and toprovide an amplified oscillating signal to a rectifying portion ofrectifier circuits 40.

In some embodiments, antenna 46 includes a capture coil operativelyconnected to an impedance matching circuit (IMC) 48. In someembodiments, far field receiver 26 includes a signal conversion module54 and a far field receiver antenna(s) 56.

In some embodiments, directed power signal 16 and inductively coupledfield 18 include an oscillating power signal having a bandwidth. Forexample, directed power signal 16 oscillating at 915 MHz may have abandwidth of approximately 50 MHz, or more. Likewise, inductivelycoupled field 18 oscillating at 6.7 MHz may have a bandwidth ofapproximately 20 MHz, or more. Further, in some embodiments device load60 may include multiple devices attached to a docking station in PRU 14.Accordingly, rectifier circuits 40 may be configured to convert portionsof the oscillating power signal within separate portions of thebandwidth to charge each of the multiple devices.

In some embodiments, transmitters and resonators as disclosed hereinconvert RF signals from instruments and devices to directed power signal16 and inductively coupled power signal 18 oscillating at an industrial,scientific and medical (ISM) frequency band appropriately optimized forthe application of the system and within accordance of regulatory rulesand laws governing such wireless operations.

FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of PRU 14, according to someembodiments. PRU 14 may include a communications circuit 138 configuredto communicate information between PTU 12 and PRU 14 (e.g.,communications circuit 38).

Antenna 165 is configured to wirelessly receive a directed power signal116 transmitted from PTU 12. In some embodiments, antenna 165 is a farfield receiver configured to wirelessly receive the directed powersignal transmitted from the far field transmitter. In some embodiments,a passively-tuned integrated circuit (PTIC) 120 a is configured todynamically tune a receiver circuit to receive directed power signal 116from antenna 165. In some embodiments, PTIC 120 a may be configured toamplify a signal, or may be integrated with an amplifier to provide atuned, amplified signal. A RF to DC circuit 125 rf converts directedpower signal 116 from a RF oscillating signal provided by PTIC 120 ainto a DC signal having a received voltage and a selected current. Insome embodiments, RF to DC circuit 125 rf may include a rectifiercircuit as disclosed herein (e.g., rectifier circuits 40). Voltagecontrol 127 adjusts the received voltage to a pre-selected value andprovides a directed power signal to a charge management IC 150.

PRU 14 includes an Rx resonator 160 r configured to receive aninductively coupled field from PTU 12. In some embodiments, theinductively coupled field is a magnetic field modulated at a low RF(e.g., 6.78 MHz, 13.56 MHz and the like) compared to the operationfrequency of antenna 165 (e.g., 915 MHz). The RF of the magnetic fieldtuned to a resonant frequency of Rx resonator 160 r. Further, in someembodiments, the resonant frequency of Rx resonator 160 r is tuned tothe frequency of RF modulated magnetic field 118 by PTIC 120 b.Accordingly, in some embodiments, PTIC 120 b may include a source coiloperatively connected to an IMC (e.g., IMC 48). Rx resonator 160 rinitiates a power transfer from PTU 12 when PRU 14 is located within anear field range of PTU 12. Rectifier 125 m is configured to convert theinductively coupled field (e.g., a low RF modulated magnetic field) intoa DC power signal including a voltage and a current. DC to DC converter115 amplifies the DC power signal from rectifier 125 m and provides aninductive power signal to charge management IC 150.

In some embodiments, charge management IC 150 includes a USB controllerconfigured to handle a USB-type coupling with external devices (e.g., adevice 187, USB to USB port 182, and USB socket 105). Charge managementIC 150 provides a power signal to battery 170, at a selected DC voltageand a selected DC current. Accordingly, charge management IC 150combines the directed power signal from voltage control 127 and theinductive power signal to provide a power signal that charges battery170. Furthermore, in some embodiments, charge management IC 150 mayselect only one or the other of the directed power signal or theinductive power signal, depending on their availability and the mode ofoperation of PRU 14, to provide the power signal to battery 170.

In some embodiments, PRU 14 is coupled with device 187 through a devicesocket 185. Device 187 may be any type of mobile electronic appliancesuch as a computer, a laptop computer, a mobile phone, smart phone,tablet computer, and tablet phone. Furthermore, in some embodimentsdevice 187 is capable of facilitating and running a software program forthe purpose of displaying session data and offering additional commandoptions for the power transfer session in a visual format. Moreover, insome embodiments battery 170 is a battery for device 187, integrallyinstalled in device 187, or independently coupled to charge managementIC 150. Moreover, in some embodiments device socket 185 may supportmultiple devices 187 configured to be charged by PRU 14.

In some embodiments, battery 170 is a reserve battery and may be chargedvia USB socket 105 and USB port 182 by a direct DC power source such asa laptop/computer, wall adaptor or power bank. Thus, device 187 may becharged at a later time from the charge in battery 170 (e.g., when PRU14 is unplugged from a DC power source in USB socket 105). Accordingly,in some embodiments USB socket 105 and USB port 182 may be used forcharging device 187 from the direct DC power source. In someembodiments, device 187 may be a phone externally coupled to USB socket105 for charging, as a power bank. Thus, in some embodiments PRU 14 maycharge an external device 187 via USB socket 105, and in someembodiments USB port 185 may receive a direct source of power coupledthrough USB socket 105 to battery 170. Accordingly, embodimentsconsistent with the present disclosure provide device 187 with multipleoptions for charging.

PRU 14 includes a MCC 100 and a memory 155. MCC 100 may be as describedin detail above with regard to MCC 36. In some embodiments, MCC 100 isconfigured to control the receiving of the directed power signal atantenna 165 from PTU 12 when PRU 14 is in the proximity of a far fieldrange of PTU 12. Further, in some embodiments MCC 100 is configured tocontrol the coupling of an inductive field wirelessly provided by PTU12, to the resonate magnetic field in the second mode when PRU 14 is inthe proximity of a near field coupling range of PTU 12. Accordingly, MCC100 may be further configured to control charge management IC 150wherein power is transferred to PRU 14 from PTU 12 by managing thedirected power signal and the resonant magnetic field to deliver poweras needed by the first mode of operation, the second mode of operation,or both modes of operation and with consideration to the powerrequirement of PRU 14, a priority value for transferring power to PRU14, and a range configuration between PTU 12 and PRU 14. Accordingly,MCC 100 may be configured to manage and determine the power requirementof PRU 14 and the priority value for transferring power to PRU 14 inview of the range configuration between PTU 12 and PRU 14. Furthermore,in some embodiments the power requirement of PRU 14 may include a powerrequirement of device 187 docked in device socket 185. Memory 155 mayinclude instructions to cause MCC 100, upon successfully establishing acommunication link with PTU 12 via a communication protocol, and upondetermining the presence of a corresponding software program installedon a device capable of running the software will provide relevantwireless power transfer session data in a visual format via saidsoftware program. In some embodiments, the second MCC is integrated intoone or more of the IC components in device 187.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a PRU 214, according to someembodiments. PRU 214 includes a battery 270, according to someembodiments. In some embodiments, battery 270 includes a charge reservebattery with capacity to deliver current from about 1800 milliamps perhour (mAh) to about 2800 mAh. In some embodiments, for a directed powersignal 116 at a RF of about 915 MHz, battery 270 may include a chargereserve battery with about 35 mAh capacity, or lower. An antenna 280 isactivated by controller 290 to provide a signal to a PTU (e.g., PTU 12).In some embodiments, antenna 280 is a BlueTooth antenna. For example,the signal provided by antenna 280 to the PTU may indicate a powerrequirement for reserve battery 270, or a range configuration betweenthe PTU and PRU 214. DC to DC converter 115 amplifies a control signalfor antenna 280 to controller 290. The control signal for antenna 280may be provided by a power management IC (PMIC) 200. PMIC 200 provides a5-9V power signal to mobile device 287, and a 3.5-4.2V power signal tobattery 270. In some embodiments, PMIC 200 may include a switchconfigured to shift power transfer between mobile device 287 and battery270 (e.g., when mobile device 287 is de-docked into PRU 214, or whenmobile device 287 is fully charged), or from reserve battery 270 tomobile device 287 (e.g., when mobile device 287 is docked into PRU 214,or when battery 270 is fully charged). Mobile device 287 may also couplewith antenna 280 through a bluetooth connection. Accordingly, mobiledevice 287 may be an external device docked onto PRU 214 by a user, forre-charging (e.g., device 187).

To receive the transferred power from the PTU, PRU 214 includes aresonator 260 that couples with matching circuit 240. Matching circuit240 may tune resonator 260 to a particular RF frequency of aninductively coupled near field power signal provided by the PTU (e.g., aRF resonant magnetic field). The inductively coupled near field powersignal is provided to ASIC 220 and to a diode 250-1 (e.g., at 5V and 2A). Antenna 265 is configured to receive a RF directed power transferredby the PTU, and is coupled with RF to DC circuit 225 rf which provides aDC power signal (e.g., at 5 C and 200 mA) to an ideal diode 250-2.Accordingly, RF to DC circuit 225 rf may be a rectifier circuit asdisclosed herein (e.g., rectifier circuits 40 and RF to DC circuit 125rf). In some embodiments, a device cable 205 provides direct power toideal diode 250-3 (e.g., at 5V and 2.5 A). Ideal diodes 250-1 through250-3 will be collectively referred to, hereinafter, as “diodes 250.”The configuration of diodes 250 in PRU 214 enables PMIC 200 to receivepower signals from three different sources: inductively coupled nearfield power signal, RF directed power signal (both from the PTU), andfrom an external source through device cable 205.

In some embodiments, any one of antennas 280, 265, and resonator 260 maybe configured to detect multiple wireless signals operating at multiplefrequencies. Accordingly, PMIC may be further configured to tuneantennas 280, 265 or resonator 260 at a frequency of one of the multiplewireless signals and to cause RF to DC converter circuit 225 rf toconvert at least one of the wireless signals into the direct-currentsignal.

In some embodiments, PMIC 200 may include a power protection circuit todetermine a fault condition in the direct-current signal, such as anover voltage condition, an over charge condition, and an overtemperature condition.

FIGS. 3A-B illustrate rectifier circuits 325 a and 325 b, respectively(hereinafter, collectively referred to as “rectifier circuits 325”) usedin RF to DC current conversion in a PRU, according to some embodiments.The DC current is provided to a device load 350 (e.g., device load 60).In some embodiments, rectifier circuits 325 may include a full-waverectifier or a half-wave rectifier. Rectifier circuits 325 may becoupled in a parallel or a series configuration, depending on thedesired voltage output in selected applications. Accordingly, when ahigher voltage output is desirable, a series configuration may bepreferred.

Rectifier circuit 325 a may be included in PRU 14 (e.g., RF to DCcircuit 125 rf). An input port 330 a is coupled to an antenna 365through a PTIC circuit (e.g., antenna 165, PTIC circuit 120). Diodes335-1, 335-2, 335-3, and 335-4 (hereinafter collectively referred to as“diodes 335”) are arranged in a configuration such that an “up-swing” iscaptured by a capacitor 337-1, and a “down-swing” is captured by acapacitor 337-2 (hereinafter collectively referred to as “capacitors337”). The charge of capacitors 337 is integrated in output port 340 aas a DC signal. In some embodiments, a capacitor 337-3 is adjustedaccording to a DC to DC conversion circuit (e.g., DC to DC converter115). Capacitor 337-3 will be referred to, hereinafter, together withcapacitors 337.

In RF to DC conversion circuit 325 a, inductors 339-1, 339-2, and 339-3(hereinafter, collectively referred to as inductors 339) are configuredto be resonantly tuned to a RF frequency of a directed energy signal(e.g., 915 MHz, and the like).

Rectifier circuit 325 b includes diodes 335-5, 335-6, 335-7, and 335-8(collectively referred to, hereinafter, as “diodes 335,” similarly torectifier circuit 325 a). Different diodes may be evaluated for cost,packaging, and performance. In some embodiments, rectifier circuit 325 bincludes a differential coupling of antenna 365 to balancing block 345.Input port 330 b and output port 340 b are as input/output ports 330a/340 a described above, respectively.

In some embodiments, at least some of diodes 335 may generateundesirable harmonics of the RF signal (Radiated Spurious Emissions,RSE). These harmonics may be radiative and cause issues with FCC limits(e.g., interference with other devices or conducting materials in thevicinity, health impact on surrounding people, and the like).Accordingly, in some embodiments rectifier circuit 325 b includes aradio-frequency shield to prevent a harmonic re-radiation of theoscillating power signal from any one of diodes 335. Some embodimentsmay include additional components to block higher order harmonics fromre-radiating through antenna 365. In some embodiments, a capacitor 337-4is adjusted according to a DC to DC conversion circuit (e.g., DC to DCconverter 115). Capacitor 337-4 will be referred to, hereinafter,together with capacitors 337 in rectifier circuit 325 a.

Balancing block 345 includes a three port device with matched input anddifferential outputs to enhance power transfer efficiency. In someembodiments, balancing block 345 includes a Balun circuit, or animpedance matching circuit. Further, in some embodiments balancing block345 is used to compensate for an unbalanced coupling of antenna 365.Accordingly, in some embodiments balancing block 345 includes abalancing circuit that receives a differential input from theoscillating power signal in antenna 365. In other aspects, balancingblock 345 may include a matching circuit configured to balance adifferential coupling of the first antenna to provide the direct-currentsignal to the device load.

FIGS. 4A-C illustrate rectified waveforms 440 a-c, respectively(collectively referred to, hereinafter, as “rectified waveforms 440”),as provided by rectifier circuit 325 a, according to some embodiments.Rectified waveforms 440 illustrate input oscillating power signal 430(e.g., as measured at point 330 in rectifier circuit 325), and rectifiedwaveforms 440 are the resulting signal corresponding to a given load(e.g., measured at point 340, for different load 350).

FIG. 4A illustrates rectified waveform 440 a for an open load.

FIG. 4B illustrates rectified waveform 440 b for a 50 ohm load. Waveform440 b indicates a half-wave rectification by rectifier circuit 325 a.

FIG. 4C illustrates rectified waveform 440 c for a 1000 Ohm load.Waveform 440 c indicates a somewhat distorted, half-wave rectificationby rectifier circuit 325 a.

FIGS. 5A-C illustrate rectified waveforms 540 a-c, respectively(collectively referred to, hereinafter, as “rectified waveforms 540”),as provided by rectifier circuit 325 b including balancing block 340,according to some embodiments. Rectified waveforms 540 illustrate inputoscillating power signal 530 (e.g., as measured at point 330 inrectifier circuit 325), and rectified waveforms 540 are the resultingsignal corresponding to a given load (e.g., measured at point 340, fordifferent load 350).

FIG. 5A illustrates rectified waveform 540 a for an open load. Waveform540 a indicates a high fidelity, full wave rectification by rectifiercircuit 325 b.

FIG. 5B illustrates rectified waveform 540 b for a 50 ohm load. Waveform540 b indicates a slightly distorted full wave rectification byrectifier circuit 325 b.

FIG. 5C illustrates rectified waveform 540 c for a 1000 Ohm load.Waveform 540 c indicates a full wave rectification by rectifier circuit325 b with a somewhat higher distortion than waveform 540 b.

FIGS. 6A-B illustrate block diagrams of a PRU 614 including a RF to DCblock 620 a, and a RF to DC block 620 b (hereinafter, collectivelyreferred to as “RF to DC blocks 620”), according to some embodiments. Insome embodiments, PRU 614 includes an antenna 665 may be as disclosedherein (e.g., antennas 165, 265, 365). A connector 680 for antenna 665may include a miniature RF connector (e.g., “ufl” connector) forhigh-frequency signals up to 6 giga-Hertz (1 GHz=10⁹ Hz), or more. Insome embodiments PRU 614 includes a matching circuit 645 including abalancing block as disclosed herein (e.g. balancing block 345). In someembodiments, matching circuit 645 may be included in a rectifier circuit625 consistent with embodiments disclosed herein (e.g., rectifiercircuits 325).

In some embodiments, PRU 614 also includes an energy harvesting circuit685 (e.g., of size about 3 mm×3 mm), to pick up, collect, and convert toa DC power, a radiating power signal available in the environment of PRU614. The radiating power signal may be a telecommunication signal fromexternal devices, and it may include information stored in it (e.g.,codified or encrypted information). A regulator 690 to determine voltageand current levels of a DC power delivered to battery 670 or to a deviceload (e.g., device load 60), according to battery and devicespecifications.

In some embodiments, block 620 a includes connector 680, matchingcircuit 645, rectifier circuit 625, harvesting circuit 685, andregulator 690 in a compact unit (e.g., of size 7.2 mm×11.4 mm).Including connector 680 and matching circuit 645 increases theconstraints for real-estate in the area allocated for block 620 a,including the architecture types available for antenna 665. In someembodiments, block 620 b includes rectifier 625, energy harvestingcircuit 685, and regulator circuit 690 in a compact unit (e.g., of size7.2 mm×11.4 mm). Excluding connector 680 and matching circuit 645relaxes the real-estate constraint in block 620 b and allows the use ofbalanced, unbalanced, printed, and peripheral elements in antenna 665,thereby widening the range of possibilities for antenna design.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a multi-mode wirelessly rechargeablebattery 700 in a standard AA form factor 701. FIG. 7 includes aperspective view 701, a top view 702, and a cross section view 710 ofbattery 700. Battery 700 includes a resonator 704; and an antenna 706.Battery 700 is configured to receive a directed power signal (e.g.,directed power signals 16 and 116) or non-directed, propagating RF powersignal in a first mode, through antenna 706. Accordingly, the first modemay include battery 700 located within a far field range of a PTU asdisclosed herein (e.g., PTU 12). In some embodiments, battery 700 isalso configured to capture an inductively coupled power signal (e.g.,inductively coupled power signals 18 and 118) through resonator 704 in asecond mode when battery 700 is within a near field range of the PTU.

In some embodiments, battery 700 also includes charging/communicationscircuit 703, an energy storage medium (ESM) 705; and a materialenclosure 711 (e.g., flex circuit) wrapped around the system.Charging/communications circuit 703 is configured to receive power fromboth antenna 706 and resonator 704, separately or in combination (e.g.,overlapping in time or simultaneously) to charge the ESM 705 where itcan be routed through contacts in the material enclosure 711 for use bya device load as needed (e.g., device load 60).

In one embodiment, ESM 705 may be operatively coupled withcharging/communications circuit 703 and configured to receive electricalcharging from the charging/communications circuit 703. Accordingly, ESM705 provides power to the device load, when charged.

In some embodiments, antenna 706 is operatively connected tocharging/communications circuit 703 to receive a directed (e.g.,directed power signals 16 and 116) or non-directed RF power signal toprovide power to charging/communications circuit 703. Resonator 704 maybe operatively coupled to charging/communications circuit 703 to receivean inductively coupled magnetic field to provide power tocharging/communications circuit 703.

In some embodiments, charging/communications circuit 703 is operativelycoupled with resonator 704, with antenna 706 and with ESM 705 to managethe distribution of power throughout the system and share powerrequirements with nearby devices (e.g., provide power wirelessly toother devices).

In some embodiments, antenna 706 and resonator 704 convert power signalsto electrical power at an ISM frequency band (e.g., in addition to adirect-current power) appropriately optimized for the application of thesystem and in accordance with regulatory rules and laws governingcertain wireless operations. Thus, in some embodiments, battery 700 mayinclude intelligently optimizing a wireless receiving of power from amulti-mode power source (e.g., PTU 12) and capturing and receiving theoptimized energy transferred wirelessly over varying distances. In someembodiments, charging/communications circuit 703 may include a wirelesscommunication protocol capable of independently identifying additionalbatteries or devices nearby.

Further, charging/communications circuit 703 may be configured to detectthe range of a mobile device relative to the battery and generateidentification and range data associated with the mobile device.Accordingly, in some embodiments, battery 700 may be configured toprovide wireless power to the identified mobile devices, or to providethe identification and range data of the mobile devices to a PTU withinrange (e.g., near field or far field) of the mobile devices.

Accordingly, charging/communications circuit 703 may be configured tointelligently determine the combination of the first and second chargingmodes, to optimize power transfer (e.g., power transfer rate andefficiency). Battery 700 establishes a communication link with a nearbyPTU via a communication protocol in charging/communications circuit 703.In some embodiments battery 700 is installed in a mobile device thatincludes a display and that has a memory storing commands and aprocessor configured to execute the commands to cause the mobile deviceto run a power transfer application. The power transfer application mayinteract with and receive data from battery 700. Thus, the mobile devicemay display relevant wireless energy transfer session data in a visualformat for a user.

One or more of batteries 700 may be integrated into devices such ascomputer peripherals (e.g., a mouse, a keyboard, a headset), or otherappliances such as phones and mobile devices, remote controls, cameras,radios or flashlights. Accordingly, the devices may use differentbattery configurations and power levels, which may be stored in memory713, accessible to charging/communications circuit 703.

FIG. 8 illustrates multi-mode wirelessly rechargeable batteries 800-1and 800-2 (hereinafter, collectively referred to as rechargeablebatteries 800) in load devices 860-1 and 860-2 respectively(hereinafter, collectively referred to as load devices 860), accordingto some embodiments. Batteries 800 may be as described above (e.g.battery 700). Load devices 860 may include any type of mobile electronicappliance such as a smart phone, a wrist band, a mobile computer, oreven an accessory such as an ear-phone, a mouse, a keyboard, and thelike.

Batteries 800 may receive a directed power 816 and an inductivelycoupled power 818 from a PTU 812 (e.g., PTU 12). Battery 800-1 mayoperate in a first mode to receive directed power 816 within a far fieldzone 801 of PTU 812. Further, battery 800-2 may operate in a second modeto receive inductively coupled power 818 from PTU 812 within a nearfield zone 802 of PTU 812. In some embodiments, either one of batteries800 (e.g., battery 800-1) may operate in a third mode 803 harvesting aradiating power 814 from the environment.

Load devices 860 may include memory circuits 865-1 and 865-2(hereinafter, collectively referred to as “memory circuits 865”). Memorycircuits 865 store instructions which, when executed by processorcircuits 867-1 and 867-2 (collectively referred to, hereinafter, as“processor circuits 867”), cause load devices 860 to perform, at leastpartially, steps in methods as disclosed herein. In some embodiments,the instructions in memory circuits 865 may include a power application822 which, when executed by processors 867, cause load devices 860 todisplay an interactive charging power image for the user in each ofdisplays 863-1 and 863-2 (hereinafter, collectively referred to as“displays 863”). Batteries 800 may communicate and exchange informationstored in memories 813-1 and 813-2 (hereinafter, collectively referredto as memories 813), with processors 867 so that application 822 mayaccurately display a power status information on displays 863, for viewby the user.

FIG. 9 illustrates a mobile device casing 900 having slots 902-1 and902-2 (hereinafter, collectively referred to as “slots 902”) and relatedfeatures that may interfere with a power transfer process, according tosome embodiments. Antennas in the mobile device may interact with ametal casing 900, impacting the lifetime of a mobile device battery. Forexample, when the mobile device antennas are detuned by device casing900, the mobile device may require a higher power level for adequatetransmission and reception of signals. Accordingly, the mobile devicebattery will tend to drain and drop calls (in the case of a cell phoneor a smart phone).

Moreover, in some configurations mobile device casing 900 may createelectromagnetic interference (EMI) and RF noise, thus degrading signalquality, reducing network capacity and increasing the number of droppedcalls. To compensate for signal quality degradation, some mobile devicesincrease the power usage, negatively impacting battery lifetime. Mobiledevice casing 900 includes sensitive regions 923-1, 923-2, and 923-3(hereinafter, collectively referred to as “sensitive regions 923”) whereantennas may be located.

In some embodiments lower frequency antennas (RF below 1 GHz) may usethe entire casing 900 to radiate (e.g., including portion 923-2). Higherfrequency antennas (RF greater than 1.6 GHz) are more localized in theradiation (e.g., in portions 923-1 and 923-3).

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating steps in a method 1000 for managing,from a rechargeable battery (e.g., batteries 700 or 800), a powertransfer from a power transferring unit, according to some embodiments.Method 1000 may be performed at least partially by any one of MCCcircuits installed in the PRU device, executing instructions stored in amemory (e.g., MCC 36, and MCC 100 and memories 155, 713, and 813), whilecommunicating with each other through a communications circuit (e.g.,communications circuit 38, and 138). In some embodiments, method 1000 ispartially performed by a PTU in communication with one or more mobiledevices roaming in the proximity of the PTU. Each of the one or moremobile devices may include a rechargeable battery having access to apower charging service of the PTU. Methods consistent with the presentdisclosure may include at least some, but not all of the stepsillustrated in method 1000, performed in a different sequence.Furthermore, methods consistent with the present disclosure may includeat least two or more steps as in method 1000 performed overlapping intime, or almost simultaneously.

Step 1002 includes identifying, by the rechargeable battery, a PTU inproximity of the rechargeable battery.

Step 1004 includes determining a range configuration between the PTU andthe rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, step 1004 includesdetermining whether the rechargeable battery is in a near field range orin a far range of the PTU. In some embodiments, step 1004 includesdetermining a geolocation of the PRU from the communication circuit inthe PRU. Further, in some embodiments step 1004 may include determiningthat the PRU is in the near field range when the PRU is within a fewmillimeters (mm), e.g., 2 mm, 3 mm, or less than 5 or 10 mm. In someembodiments, step 1004 may include determining that the PRU is in thefar field range of the PTU when the PRU is within a few meters (m) ofthe PTU (e.g., 1 m, 2 m, or 5 to 10 m). In some embodiments, the nearfield range can extend further distances, such as 6-8 inches (e.g.,about 15-40 cm), depending on power transfer efficiency and safetyconsiderations. In some embodiments, a far field range may includedistances of about 1-2 meters, or 3-12 meters. In some embodiments,efficient RF power transfer can be achieved from 1-12 meters in a farfield range.

Step 1006 includes determining the power status of the rechargeablebattery. In some embodiments, step 1006 may include receiving a chargepercentage of a battery in the PRU (e.g., 10%, 50%, or 100% and thelike). In some embodiments, step 1006 may also include receiving a “timeremaining” for the operation of the PRU based on the power status,current usage conditions, and other environmental factors (e.g.,temperature and the like). For example, in some embodiments step 1006may include receiving from the PRU a message as “10 minutes (min)remaining,” “5 min. remaining,” and the like.

Step 1008 includes selecting a first antenna in the rechargeable batterybased on the range configuration between the PTU and the rechargeablebattery, and on the power status of the rechargeable battery. In someembodiments, step 1008 includes selecting a radio-frequency antenna toreceive a directed radio-frequency power when the range configurationbetween the power transferring unit and the power receiving unit iswithin a far field, and selecting an inductively coupled antenna whenthe range configuration between the power transferring unit and thepower receiving unit is within a near field. In some embodiments, step1008 may also include selecting a radio-frequency antenna configured toreceive a propagating, directed radio-frequency signal as theoscillating power signal when the range configuration between the powertransferring unit and the power receiving unit is beyond a near fieldconfiguration and within a far field configuration. In some embodiments,step 1008 includes simultaneously selecting a radio-frequency antennaconfigured to receive a propagating, directed radio-frequency signal andan inductively coupled antenna, when the range configuration between thepower transferring unit and the power receiving unit is within a nearfield configuration.

Step 1010 includes receiving, with the first antenna, an oscillatingpower signal from the power transferring unit at the selected frequency.In some embodiments, step 1010 includes receiving, in the rechargeablebattery and based on the power status information, a directed powersignal from the PTU when the rechargeable battery is in proximity of afar range of the PTU. In some embodiments, step 1010 includes receiving,in the rechargeable battery and based on the power status information,an inductively coupled field from the PTU that is resonant with therechargeable battery, when the rechargeable battery is in the proximityof at least a near field range of the power transferring unit. In someembodiments, the inductively coupled field is a RF-modulated magneticfield, and step 1010 includes receiving the resonant RF-modulatedmagnetic field with a receiver circuit in the rechargeable battery(e.g., Rx resonator 160 r, see FIG. 2). In some embodiments, step 1010includes receiving, in a wireless receiver, multiple wireless signalsoperating at multiple frequencies, and tuning the at least one powerreceiving circuit at a frequency of one of the wireless signals.

Step 1012 includes converting, with a rectifier circuit, the oscillatingpower signal from the PTU at the selected frequency into adirect-current signal. In some embodiments, step 1012 includes tuning aradio-frequency amplifier circuit coupled to the first antenna at theselected frequency in the power receiving unit. In some embodiments,step 1012 includes balancing a differential input from the firstantenna. In some embodiments, step 1012 includes converting, in arectifier circuit, one of multiple wireless signals into thedirect-current signal.

Step 1014 includes providing the direct-current signal to a mobiledevice. In some embodiments, step 1014 includes receiving, in a reservebattery, at least a first portion of the direct-current signal, andproviding at least a second portion of the direct-current signal fromthe reserve battery to a mobile electronic device docked in the powerreceiving unit.

The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments ofdevices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts,and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/orexamples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will beunderstood by those within the art that each function and/or operationwithin such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented,individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software,firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment,several portions of the subject matter described herein may beimplemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs),General Purpose Processors (GPPs), Microcontroller Units (MCUs), orother integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art willrecognize that some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, inwhole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integratedcircuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or morecomputers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computersystems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors(e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors),as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designingthe circuitry and/or writing the code for the software/and or firmwarewould be well within the skill of one skilled in the art in light ofthis disclosure.

In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that themechanisms of some of the subject matter described herein may be capableof being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, andthat an illustrative embodiment of the subject matter described hereinapplies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium usedto actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearingmedium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable typemedium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), aDigital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc.; and atransmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analogcommunication medium, e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wiredcommunication link, a wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter,receiver, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.).

Those having skill in the art will recognize that the state of the arthas progressed to the point where there is little distinction leftbetween hardware, software, and/or firmware implementations of aspectsof systems; the use of hardware, software, and/or firmware is generally(but not always, in that in certain contexts the choice between hardwareand software can become significant) a design choice representing costvs. efficiency tradeoffs. Those having skill in the art will appreciatethat there are various vehicles by which processes and/or systems and/orother technologies described herein can be effected (e.g., hardware,software, and/or firmware), and that the preferred vehicle will varywith the context in which the processes and/or systems and/or othertechnologies are deployed. For example, if an implementer determinesthat speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt for amainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibilityis paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly softwareimplementation; or, yet again alternatively, the implementer may opt forsome combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Hence, thereare several possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devicesand/or other technologies described herein may be effected, none ofwhich is inherently superior to the other in that any vehicle to beutilized is a choice dependent upon the context in which the vehiclewill be deployed and the specific concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, orpredictability) of the implementer, any of which may vary. Those skilledin the art will recognize that optical aspects of implementations willtypically employ optically-oriented hardware, software, and or firmware.

As mentioned above, other embodiments and configurations may be devisedwithout departing from the spirit of the disclosure and the scope of theappended claims.

The term “machine-readable storage medium” or “computer readable medium”as used herein refers to any medium or media that participates inproviding instructions or data to processor for execution. Such a mediummay take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media,volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, forexample, optical disks, magnetic disks, or flash memory (e.g., memories713 and 865). Volatile media include dynamic memory (e.g., memories 713and 865). Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire, andfiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus. Common forms ofmachine-readable media include, for example, floppy disk, a flexibledisk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM,DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any otherphysical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a FLASHEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, or any other medium fromwhich a computer can read. The machine-readable storage medium can be amachine-readable storage device, a machine-readable storage substrate, amemory device, a composition of matter effecting a machine-readablepropagated signal, or a combination of one or more of them.

In one aspect, a method may be an operation, an instruction, or afunction and vice versa. In one aspect, a clause or a claim may beamended to include some or all of the words (e.g., instructions,operations, functions, or components) recited in other one or moreclauses, one or more words, one or more sentences, one or more phrases,one or more paragraphs, and/or one or more claims.

Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, oneor more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, anotherimplementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, anembodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one ormore embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, anotherconfiguration, some configurations, one or more configurations, thesubject technology, the disclosure, the present disclosure, othervariations thereof and alike are for convenience and do not imply that adisclosure relating to such phrase(s) is essential to the subjecttechnology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of thesubject technology. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may apply toall configurations, or one or more configurations. A disclosure relatingto such phrase(s) may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as anaspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa,and this applies similarly to other foregoing phrases.

A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “oneand only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” Theterm “some,” refers to one or more. Underlined and/or italicizedheadings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit thesubject technology, and are not referred to in connection with theinterpretation of the description of the subject technology. Relationalterms such as first and second and the like may be used to distinguishone entity or action from another without necessarily requiring orimplying any actual such relationship or order between such entities oractions. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements ofthe various configurations described throughout this disclosure that areknown or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the artare expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to beencompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing disclosedherein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whethersuch disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description. No claimelement is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112,sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using thephrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element isrecited using the phrase “step for.”

While this specification contains many specifics, these should not beconstrued as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed, but ratheras descriptions of particular implementations of the subject matter.Certain features that are described in this specification in the contextof separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in asingle embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described inthe context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multipleembodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover,although features may be described above as acting in certaincombinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more featuresfrom a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from thecombination, and the claimed combination may be directed to asubcombination or variation of a subcombination.

The subject matter of this specification has been described in terms ofparticular aspects, but other aspects can be implemented and are withinthe scope of the following claims. For example, while operations aredepicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not beunderstood as requiring that such operations be performed in theparticular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustratedoperations be performed, to achieve desirable results. The actionsrecited in the claims can be performed in a different order and stillachieve desirable results. As one example, the processes depicted in theaccompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular ordershown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In certaincircumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.Moreover, the separation of various system components in the aspectsdescribed above should not be understood as requiring such separation inall aspects, and it should be understood that the described programcomponents and systems can generally be integrated together in a singlesoftware product or packaged into multiple software products.

The title, background, brief description of the drawings, abstract, anddrawings are hereby incorporated into the disclosure and are provided asillustrative examples of the disclosure, not as restrictivedescriptions. It is submitted with the understanding that they will notbe used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in thedetailed description, it can be seen that the description providesillustrative examples and the various features are grouped together invarious implementations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure.The method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting anintention that the claimed subject matter requires more features thanare expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the claims reflect,inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a singledisclosed configuration or operation. The claims are hereby incorporatedinto the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as aseparately claimed subject matter.

The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects describedherein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with thelanguage claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Notwithstanding,none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails tosatisfy the requirements of the applicable patent law, nor should theybe interpreted in such a way.

1. A device comprising: a processor configured to identify a powertransferring unit, to determine a range configuration relative to thepower transferring unit, and to determine a power status of the device;a first antenna configured to receive an oscillating power signal fromthe power transferring device at a first selected frequency based on therange configuration relative to the power transferring device, and onthe power status of the device; and a rectifier circuit configured toconvert the oscillating power signal from the first antenna at the firstselected frequency into a direct-current signal to charge an energystorage medium, wherein the rectifier circuit is further configured toprovide the direct-current signal to an appliance coupled with thedevice.
 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a memory storinginstructions which cause the processor to communicate with a processorin the appliance and to provide an identification of the powertransferring device, the range configuration relative to the powertransferring device and the power status of the device, to theappliance.
 3. The device of claim 1, further comprising a flex circuitembedding the processor and the first antenna in a casing configured ina standard AA shape.
 4. The device of claim 1, further comprising asecond antenna configured to receive an inductively coupled magneticpower signal from the power transferring device at a second selectedfrequency when the processor determines a near field range configurationrelative to the power transferring device and a power level lower than athreshold as the power status of the device.
 5. The device of claim 1,wherein the rectifier circuit comprises a balancing circuit configuredto receive a differential input from the oscillating power signal fromthe first antenna.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the first antennais configured to detect multiple wireless signals operating at multiplefrequencies, the processor further configured to tune the first antennaat a frequency of one of the multiple wireless signals and to cause therectifier circuit to convert the one of the wireless signals into thedirect-current signal.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the rectifiercircuit comprises a matching circuit configured to balance adifferential coupling of the first antenna to provide the direct-currentsignal to the appliance.
 8. A method, comprising: identifying, by arechargeable battery, a power transferring unit in a proximity of therechargeable battery; determining a range configuration between thepower transferring unit and the rechargeable battery; determining apower status of the rechargeable battery; selecting a first antenna inthe power receiving unit based on the range configuration between thepower transferring unit and the rechargeable battery, and on the powerstatus of the rechargeable battery; receiving, with the first antenna,an oscillating power signal from the power transferring unit at aselected frequency; converting the oscillating power signal from thepower transferring unit at the selected frequency into a direct-currentsignal; and providing the direct-current signal to a mobile devicecoupled with the rechargeable battery.
 9. The method of claim 8, whereinconverting the oscillating power signal from the power transferring unitat the selected frequency into a direct-current signal comprisesbalancing a differential input from the first antenna.
 10. The method ofclaim 8, wherein receiving, with the first antenna, an oscillating powersignal from the power transferring unit comprises tuning aradio-frequency amplifier circuit coupled to the first antenna at theselected frequency in the rechargeable battery.
 11. The method of claim8, wherein selecting a first antenna in the rechargeable batterycomprises selecting a radio-frequency antenna to receive a directedradio-frequency power when the range configuration between the powertransferring unit and the rechargeable battery is within a far field,and selecting an inductively coupled antenna when the rangeconfiguration between the power transferring unit and the rechargeablebattery is within a near field.
 12. The method of claim 8, whereinselecting the first antenna in the rechargeable battery comprisesselecting a radio-frequency antenna configured to receive a propagating,directed radio-frequency signal as the oscillating power signal when therange configuration between the power transferring unit and therechargeable battery is beyond a near field configuration and within afar field configuration.
 13. The method of claim 8, wherein selectingthe first antenna in the rechargeable battery comprises simultaneouslyselecting a radio-frequency antenna configured to receive a propagating,directed radio-frequency signal and an inductively coupled antenna, whenthe range configuration between the power transferring unit and therechargeable battery is within a near field configuration.
 14. Themethod of claim 8, further comprising receiving, in a reserve battery,at least a first portion of the direct-current signal, and providing atleast a second portion of the direct-current signal from the reservebattery to a mobile electronic device coupled with the rechargeablebattery.
 15. The method of claim 8, further comprising: receiving, in awireless receiver, multiple wireless signals operating at multiplefrequencies, tuning the at least one power receiving circuit at afrequency of one of the wireless signals, and converting, in a rectifiercircuit, the one of the wireless signals into the direct-current signal.16. The method claim 8, further comprising identifying a sensitiveregion in the mobile device and selecting a mode of power transfer basedon the sensitive region.
 17. A non-transitory, computer readable mediumstoring instructions which, when executed by a processor in a mobilecomputing device, cause the mobile computing device to perform a method,comprising: receiving, from a rechargeable battery in the mobilecomputing device, an identification of a power transferring unit, arange configuration between the mobile computing device and the powertransferring unit, and a power status of the rechargeable battery;providing, in a display for a user of the mobile computing device, thepower status of the rechargeable battery; requesting, from the user, anauthorization to recharge the rechargeable battery with the powertransferring unit; and providing to the rechargeable battery a selectedmode of power transfer from the power transferring unit based on therange configuration between the mobile computing device and the powertransferring unit, and the power status of the rechargeable battery. 18.The non-transitory, computer readable medium of claim 17, furthercomprising instructions for receiving, from the rechargeable battery, anidentification of an appliance proximal to the mobile computing device,a power status of the appliance, and a request to transfer a powersignal to the appliance.
 19. The non-transitory, computer readablemedium of claim 17, further comprising instructions for receiving, fromthe rechargeable battery, an identification of a radiating power signalavailable for recharging the rechargeable battery, and a request toauthorize the rechargeable battery to harvest the radiating powersignal.
 20. The non-transitory, computer readable medium of claim 17,further comprising instructions for selecting a mode of power transferbased on a sensitive region in the mobile computing device.